Mild temperatures, rich waters encourage year-round fishing

In an area boasting subtropical climate practically year-round, it’s no wonder why the Rio Grande Valley is recognized as one of the nation’s prime fishing regions, attracting anglers from all over the country.

The Valley’s mild winters leave ample opportunity for anglers to go after a wide array of species in various realms of the sport.

Port Isabel and South Padre Island are two of the area’s most popular venues, offering anglers virtually every kind of fishing experience — from pier fishing to deep sea fishing. Pirate’s Landing Pier — the state’s longest pier — and Osprey Fishing Trips, which offers people a variety of trips to suit their needs, are just two of the angling options available.

People can find a complete list of Port Isabel and South Padre Island guides online at www.fishspi.com.

The two cities have also been hosting the annual Texas International Fishing Tournament for the past 70 years. Described as a “friendly fishing competition,” TIFT is a five-day, summer event open to anglers of all ages. Fishing divisions include bay, offshore and tarpon. The Guide to South Padre Island recognizes TIFT as the largest saltwater fishing tournament in Texas.

Port Mansfield is widely considered one of the Valley’s best spots to fish. According to the city’s official Web site, a less than 15-minute run may be all it takes for the area’s offshore waters to yield a catch. Anglers can expect all kinds of large species, from marlin to snapper, as well as tuna, barracuda and mahi mahi, among others.

On the bay side of the barrier island, the Lower Laguna Madre is an area known for its speckled trout and redfish, making it one of the most productive locations on the Texas coast.

Since the Laguna Madre is only about 3 to 4 feet deep, it is an excellent area for drift and wade fishing.
Port Mansfield hosts the Port Mansfield Fishing Tournament every summer.

The Lower Laguna Madre’s ecosystem depends heavily on the Arroyo Colorado, which flows through Rio Hondo. It is one of just a few freshwater fishing spots in the Valley and has been a popular destination for anglers for several years. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department says that depending on the season, anglers can expect to find seatrout, redfish or flounder.

Falcon Reservoir serves as another freshwater habitat, where anglers can find the ever popular bass. Bass fishing has grown into a prominent sport since the late 1800s. Falcon is one of the state’s best fishing holes for largemouth bass, according to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Web site.

Catfish is another predominant species at Falcon, which is located 40 miles east of Laredo on U.S. Highway 83 in Zapata and Starr counties.

Ramiro Paez is a sports writer for The Monitor. You can reach him at (956) 683-4470.